Tips to Keep Your Skin Healthy in the Winter

In northern states, harsh winters are common.  This brings about the challenges of dry air, freezing temperatures, snow, and windy weather, which can damage your skin if you do not treat it properly.  Keeping your skin safe from harsh winds and dry air can be a challenge, but it is essential to keeping it healthy.  As experts in dermatopathology in Pittsburgh, PA, we recognize many skin irritations that are caused by dry weather common in the winter season.  There are a few tips to help keep your skin healthy during the dry, cold winter months.

Run a Humidifier

During the winter, the air is dry and void of moisture.  We recommend that you run a humidifier when you sleep at night to help keep moisture in the air in your home.  This will help to keep your skin hydrated and it will also help you to stay healthier as well.

Change Your Skincare Routine

During the winter months, it is important to change up your skincare routine to help add moisture into your products.  You want to avoid using products that include alcohol and fragrances, as they tend to have drying properties.  After you wash your face, you also want to apply moisturizer to your skin as well.

Avoid Hot Water

When you wash your hands, it is important to avoid excessively hot water.  Hot water can actually continue to dry out your skin.  Because the winter months also coincide with the cold and flu season, you will want to wash your hands frequently.  When you do so, use lukewarm water and also moisturize right after to keep your hands from drying out.

Use Gentle Cleansers

During the winter months, your skin is already susceptible to red, dry, and irritating rashes.  Using the wrong soap or cleanser can stimulate this irritation and cause it to get worse.  Be sure to use cleansers that are fragrance-free.  This will eliminate unnecessary drying chemicals from irritating your skin any further.

Moisturize Frequently

After you are done washing, you should always moisturize.  Keeping moisturizers next to your sink will help remind you to frequently use moisturize to keep your skin hydrated.  This will help to combat the dry air during the winter.  Hand creams are also great ways to add hydration to your skin.  Avoid using lotions and instead opt for creams or ointments.  These are stronger during the dryer months.

These are just a few tips to follow in order to keep your skin safe during the harsh winter months.  As specialists in dermatopathology in Pittsburgh, PA, we recommend that you follow these tips in order to avoid rashes or irritations that can be caused by the dry air and the harsh cold temperatures.  If you are looking for experts in dermatopathology, contact us today to hear about our quality services.